Scripture:
"4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails."
--1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (from the NIV: New International
Version of the Bible)
Our Focus:
Today we shift our attention to verse 6, "Love does not delight in evil..."
Question for Reflection:
Do you provide opportunities for evil, worldly things to enter into your relationship with your spouse?
Discussion:
It is difficult to have love in a place where evil exists. If you find that your focus is not totally on your spouse when it comes to romance, (for example, maybe you think about or lust after someone else), then evil has entered into your thinking and therefore your relationship.
We can fight temptation with God's help and keep evil out of our romantic life. 1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted,he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."
Homework:
Are there times when you're tempted to look at someone other than your spouse with lust in your heart and mind? If so, make the effort to pray about it whenever this situation arises.
Use an index card, or piece of paper to write down 1 Corinthians 10:13 and keep it with you for reference whenever you feel tempted.
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Thanks for reading this devotional.
Please feel free to share and pass along to others.
Have a blessed day!
--Steve Kendall
